Archives by Tag 'AAU Track & Field'

Baylor University Director of Track and Field, Clyde Hart, explains the importance of marking the zone so that the outgoing runner has the best chance to be at full speed during the exchange.

Marking the Zone

Coach Hart explains that he has his athletes use two marks: a Set Mark and a Go Mark. The Go Mark is measured out first by counting heel to toes (Coach Hart has his athletes use 24. This might change depending on your athletes). The Set Mark is roughly 8 yards behind the Go Mark. Coach Hart likes his athletes to get into running position when the incoming runner reaches the Set Mark. Running position is defined by Coach Hart as “digging your spikes” into the track and applying pressure to your front foot, so your back foot can move freely on its first step. When the incoming runner reaches the Go Mark, they are to take off and at full speed.

30 year NCAA Division 1 Track & Field Coach, Dr. Rick McGuire, describes how you must have confidence in order to deliver your best performance. The athlete must focus on his or her performance, not on the race outcome. Your best performance gives you the best chance of the best outcome.

Confidence

The number one reason for losing is because the athlete did not deliver his or her best performance.

University of Southern California Assistant Track and Field Coach, Mike Pullins, discusses how the Weak-Leg Contraction Drill causes greater contraction on the weak-leg which forces greater contraction on the take off foot. This drill will cut down on some injuries that come with high jumping.